Thorns FC sign defender Kelli Hubly

PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Thorns FC have signed defender Kelli Hubly, it was announced today.

Hubly, who had signed as a national team replacement player while forward Hayley Raso was away on international duty, has started each of the club’s first four matches and is one of five players to have played all 360 minutes this season for Thorns FC. Hubly, 23, earned her first career professional start on March 24, logging 90 minutes in the club’s season-opening match against the North Carolina Courage.

“Kelli has been an important piece to our positive start,” said Thorns FC head coach Mark Parsons. “She has put in the work and has continued to grow and improve during her time here. She has earned this opportunity and we are excited to be able to reward her.”

Prior to this season, Hubly played in two matches for Thorns FC, both in substitute roles, making her professional debut on July 15, 2017, against the Courage.